MEMA coordinating preparations for Tropical Storm Barry

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is coordinating preparations for Tropical Storm Barry that is expected to affect the state as early as Friday morning. A tropical storm watch and storm surge watch is also in effect for the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The National Hurricane Center upgraded Barry to a tropical storm Thursday morning and has currently located the storm in the central Gulf of Mexico, south of Louisiana. Barry could possibly strengthen to a Category One Hurricane before making landfall near the central Louisiana coast. Rain totals could rise above 10 inches or more in south and southwest Mississippi.

“We are expecting heavy and prolonged rainfall, which could lead to life threatening flooding and flash flooding in multiple portions of the state, not just the coast,” said MEMA Executive Director Greg Michel. “Now is the time to finalize your family plan. Where are you going if you need to evacuate? Is your emergency supply kit packed and ready? Get everything in order before the storm makes landfall”

Here is the latest information on Tropical Storm Barry from the National Weather Service:

• Impacts from Tropical Storm Barry could be felt as early as Friday morning.
• Greatest threat is heavy rainfall and flooding which will impact much of South, Southwest and some parts of Central Mississippi.
• Potential for storm surge flooding above three feet for the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
• People living in low lying areas should have a plan to evacuate if waters begin to rise.

MEMA is encouraging everyone to communicate with family and friends about your emergency plan and listen to the advice of your local officials.